Braid: Backing vs No Backing

[DannyL]

So I have guys tell me they run backing and guys tell me they don't run backing. What are the pros and cons to this?

[Amx]

I ALWAYS use backing. Saves on cost as you don't use as much each time you put it on the spool. One small bulk spool can be used on 3 small 2500 series reels.

[BentRod]

When I started using braid I used a 12# mono backing as I was told it was necessary to add volume and the mono would tighten on the spool unlike the braid which will slip. I also thought that if I got spooled on a King or something then the mono would break and potentially prevent my reel from getting damaged. 5 years later I've given up on using backing, a little electrical tape (or other tape product) on the spool keeps the braid from slipping and since I use mono topshot I really don't have to worry about getting spooled as I'd rather break the leader then let a fish take that much line. Since the braid rarely breaks itself, then I do find that the majority of the braid on the reel never sees the light of day, but I also never have to worry about clipping a little off here and there as I'll always have enough on the spool to do the job and the line will last multiple seasons. I did have about 50 feet break off on my float rod in December due to a nick in the line and was worried I'd have to reload the reel, but no, there's still plenty on there and no need to replace the remaining line. Yes, it's expensive to load multiple reels or large reels with braid, but unless you unquestionable replace your line every season (I don't) then it'll last a long time too, so I see it as more of an investment.
I will caution, if you don't use backing, make sure you have some sort of tape product to help keep the braid from slipping on the spool, even if it's one of the new "grooved" spools designed for braid. I had a Shimano Saros spooled with 20# PowerPro last fall at OE and the guy didn't use any tape. When I questioned him about it he said it wasn't necessary due to the new spools….yeah, three trips later the whole spool of braid was spinning freely around the spool. Fortunately it was just a short trip and I had two rods with me. If I'd been on a day trip somewhere I'd have been more than a little irritated. Lesson learned.

[ncwflounderer]

I'm with Bent Rod. I don't usually use any backing, but do use a little tape to secure the braid to the spool. Sometimes I will put a little mono on, then tie the braid to it to keep it from slipping. after a couple years, I spool it on backwards on to another reel, and get use out of the other end of the braid.

[BentRod]

….. after a couple years, I spool it on backwards on to another reel, and get use out of the other end of the braid.

Same here.

[Mike Carey]

another thought, after a couple years, transfer the braid to another reel and all that good braid that never saw water will now be on the working end of the 2nd reel, and the used braid will be closer to the spool.

[bdrlgion]

See above two posts, Mike. 8)

It's ok, it's Monday, and we're all undercaffeinated.

[DannyL]

Thanks for the info guys! I used the electrical tape idea with some Power Pro Super Slick!

[Amx]

I also use backing for everything, except maybe my flippin sticks, don't remember on those.

[Mike Carey]

See above two posts, Mike. 8)

It's ok, it's Monday, and we're all undercaffeinated.

Opps.

[The Quadfather]

another thought, after a couple years, transfer the braid to another reel and all that good braid that never saw water will now be on the working end of the 2nd reel, and the used braid will be closer to the spool.

This is so true!
At the cost of braid... (And i love it)
You will find yourself only using the top 30% of your braid. The rest never gets wet.

Reverse that stuff up/and on to another reel at a later date. Plenty of mileage left in it.

[Seattlè Pat]

Dacron Backing, it's the only way to go. Simple, Cheap and Durable.

http://buy.scientificanglers.com/fly-ba ... acron.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Brat Bonker]

I started using fly line backing instead of braid for twitching, works great just don't use it for floats, it doesn't float learned that the hard way. backing or electrical tape just make sure something is there

[natetreat]

If your reel has a larger capacity than you'd need if you fill it with braid, you put backing on it. My abu c4's will hold 500 yards of 1 pound power pro, I run backing to fill the spool and then 150 yards of braid. But if you're running spinners, just put it on the spool with a piece of masking tap so it doesn't slip. When the front gets worn, just turn it around.